21 Book Reviews submitted by our Members...sorted by voted most helpful

Becker has a lot to say based on his vast investigative experience --- "true fear is often a signal that can save your life." This is the premise and many true story examples are given. I loved the book, and I learned some practical survival signals that may help protect me in the future. A great read, could not put it down, recommended it to everyone.

This is an incredible book. I've recommended it to many people, and I'm happy to ship mine to somebody in order to share it. It's key premise is not to be afraid of your own fear, but to utilize it, a lesson De Becker teaches well. Every woman would benefit from this book, as well as law enforcement officials looking to understand high tension situations better.

This was a great book - however it really makes you think twice about situations you can get yourself into. I gave a copy to my daughter and it actually helped her when she became the victim of a stalker

Tracy F. (tsf) reviewed The Gift of Fear: And Other Survival Signals that Protect Us from Violence on 2/6/2009

Helpful Score: 2

Excellent and thought provoking book. Should be required reading for women. Of interest to both genders but a lot of it is aimed at helping women identify potential violence. I've read it more than once and found it fascinating.

Some good information about why you should learn to trust your instincts. Especially good for those who tend to minimize the importance of "that little voice in my head" or their gut feelings. As a former Human Resources professional, I especially appreciated the section regarding workplace safety. I've attended Park Dietz' (he is referenced in the book) workplace safety training and it should be required training for all HR and business leaders. Reading this book, probably more than once, would be the next best thing.

Reader-girl - reviewed The Gift of Fear: And Other Survival Signals that Protect Us from Violence on 10/9/2009

Helpful Score: 1

Well-done book pointing out why you should listen to your gut feelings about people, and how those feelings are actually based upon real things that have made you aware of danger. Intuition doesn't come out of the air, it comes out of you noticing things that don't fit. Very important points on trusting this sense. This book is worth reading just as a reminder.

This well-written book explains how fear works and how it can help you survive in unexpected dangerous situations. This is an incredibly interesting read for anyone, and sadly necessary for women. If you worry about your personal safety, or wonder about the "random" crazies that seem to pop up in the news every so often, read this book. It will help you sort out when you should just relax - and when you should listen to your gift of fear.

This is an amazing book. I am getting copies for my daughters. I think all women should read it. It validates our intuitive processes that keep us safe. It shows us how to recognize and deal with dangerous situations. It is written in an interesting and easily understood manner.

Every woman should read this book!!! It tells good examples of why we should trust our "gut" instincts when it comes to a fear response. Don't tell yourself you are being silly, trust your uneasiness, and get out of that situation!

From the backcover:
True fear is a gift. Unwarranted fear is a curse. Learn to tell the difference. A date won't take "no" for an answer. The new nanny gives a mother an uneasy feeling. A stranger in a deserted parking lot offers unsolicited help. The threat of violence surrounds us every day. But we can protect ourselves, by learning to trust-and act on-our gut instincts.

In this empowering book, Gavin de Becker, the man Oprah Wintrey calls the nation's leading expert on violent behavior, shows you how to spot even subtle signs of danger-before it's too late. Shattering the myth that most violet acts are unpredictable, de Becker, whose clients include top Hollywood stars and government agencies, offers specific ways to protect yourself and those you love, including...how to act when approached by a stranger...when you should fear someone close to you...what to do if you are being stalked...how to uncover the source of anonymous threats or phone calls...the biggest mistake you can make with a threatening person...and more. Learn to spot the danger signals others miss. It might just save your life.